Addressing national International Workers’ Day celebrations in Njombe, President Samia said social stability and national cohesion remain essential foundations for economic growth, decent work and sustainable development.

Her remarks come as Tanzania seeks to position itself among Africa’s fastest-growing economies under its Development Vision 2050, which aims to transform the country into a middle- to high-income economy with a target of reaching a one trillion-dollar economy by mid-century.

Speaking before workers, government officials and labour representatives gathered at Lunyanywi Grounds, President Samia urged citizens not to allow political or social differences to undermine the country’s long-standing traditions of unity and peaceful coexistence.

“It is the responsibility of workers to ensure that our differences do not endanger the foundations of peace, unity and solidarity left to us by our founding leaders,” she said.

“Let us remain united, work together and continue building a strong and respected nation.”

The event was held under the theme: “Decent Work is a Strong Pillar for Sustainable Development in the Implementation of the National Development Vision 2050.”

President Samia said decent work and workers’ dignity cannot thrive without peace and stability, adding that national unity remains closely linked to economic progress and social well-being.

Analysts say Tanzania has increasingly sought to combine economic reforms, infrastructure investment and labour development policies as part of broader efforts to strengthen economic resilience and attract investment in East Africa.

The president called on workers to demonstrate professionalism, integrity and commitment in supporting national development efforts.

“As the backbone of the nation, workers must play a central role in driving this vision forward,” she said.

President Samia highlighted several labour and employment initiatives introduced during her administration, including recruitment efforts in the public sector and programmes aimed at expanding job opportunities for young people.

According to government figures, thousands of public sector jobs have been created during her administration, while more than 7,500 Tanzanian youths have secured employment opportunities abroad through government-supported labour programmes.

Authorities say efforts are also underway to strengthen protections and welfare systems for Tanzanians working overseas.

The president also praised private sector employers for implementing revised minimum wage measures, saying most employers had already complied with the changes aimed at improving workers’ living standards.

Additional labour reforms highlighted during the celebrations included the launch of a five-year National Decent Work Programme and expanded social security coverage targeting workers in the informal sector, which employs millions of Tanzanians.

The government has also allocated significant funding to support youth entrepreneurship and small business development as part of broader efforts to tackle unemployment and expand economic inclusion.

President Samia warned, however, that rapid technological change and shifting global economic conditions are transforming labour markets worldwide.

She said Tanzania must invest more heavily in education, innovation and skills development to ensure workers remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven global economy.

“Global political and economic changes, together with technological advancement, are reshaping the world of work,” she said.

The government is also continuing efforts to formalise parts of the informal economy and strengthen participation of workers in labour and development policies, officials said.

Despite economic pressures linked to global market conditions, infrastructure recovery costs and other national expenditures, President Samia said her government remains committed to improving workers’ welfare.

She noted that resources are being directed toward infrastructure rebuilding, debt settlements and economic stabilisation measures while maintaining support for worker-related programmes.

“Workers’ welfare remains a priority, and improvements will continue as the economy grows stronger,” she said.

Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba also addressed the gathering, urging workers to remain committed, resilient and patient in their professional responsibilities.

He said public services and national development depend heavily on the dedication of workers across different sectors.

“Patience and endurance are important qualities for professional growth and service delivery,” he said.

Labour Minister Deus Sangu praised ongoing government efforts to create employment opportunities and improve working conditions.

Regional officials also used the occasion to encourage newly employed workers to remain committed to serving communities, particularly in rural areas where staffing shortages continue to affect service delivery.

Observers say Tanzania’s growing emphasis on labour development, youth employment and social stability reflects broader ambitions to strengthen human capital as the country pursues long-term industrialisation and economic transformation goals.

With major investments underway in infrastructure, energy, transport and manufacturing, the government increasingly views workforce development as central to sustaining economic growth and improving living standards.

For many workers attending the celebrations, the message focused not only on employment, but on the broader connection between national unity, stability and shared prosperity.

As Tanzania advances its Vision 2050 agenda, officials say the country’s success will depend largely on maintaining peace, strengthening institutions and empowering workers to drive future growth and development.

Notes to Editors

· International Workers' Day (May Day) is observed annually on May 1 to recognise the contributions of workers and promote labour rights worldwide.

· The 2026 national celebrations in Tanzania were held at Lunyanywi Grounds in Njombe.

· The event was officiated by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, and attended by senior government leaders, labour representatives and workers from across the country.

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